Category Archives: france

versailles hotel

 

 

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Versailles…such a stunning place, and I will elaborate on my visits there later. I wanted to share that there will be a luxury hotel opening up on the grounds of the palace in 2012! You may have already heard this news, but I am still giddy about it…who wouldn't want to pretend to be Marie Antoinette (or any princess or queen) for a day?! The mansion to be renovated was originally built in the 1680's to house the king's treasurer and family. I suspect it will be a pretty amazing experience to sleep within the gates of Versailles…add it to my long wish list! 


(image via here)


l’orangerie lilies

 

 

Lilies

Every time I've been in Paris the l'Orangerie museum has been under construction, and I can't even explain my excitement that it was finally open on our recent trip! I grew up loving Monet's art and learning about his life, thanks to my mother. I've devoured pretty much any and all places that house his works, and this was at the top of my must-see list. I was worried that all the build-up to this event would outshine the actual experience, but thankfully, it did not disappoint. They are truly awe-inspiring…I could have sat on the benches and stared ALL day.


 

route des vins

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Traveling the Alsace wine route has always been on my wish list. We dedicated a day to the “route des vins”, and had so much fun. The wines from the region (mainly riesling) garner high praise, the scenery is beautiful, and the winding road is a relaxing journey. The small towns scattered along the route each have their own identity, some with historic sites, some with a grand cru, and all with Alsatian charm. We drank (and spit) all the way to Colmar…

 

paris day trips: giverny

 

 

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In 2006 my Mom joined me on my second journey to France, and we saved a very special day trip for last. Giverny…the home and gardens of Monet, which inspired his now iconic water lily paintings. With my Mom being an art teacher, I was taught quite a bit about the subject growing up, with a focus on impressionism (since it was her personal favorite). I also developed an affinity for Monet, and dreamed of the day I could stand on the bridge over the water lily pond. I had no idea I would be able to share this moment with my Mom, and it will remain one of our most treasured memories. Giverny happens to be a fabulous day trip from Paris, and the town itself is incredibly charming. His home is quaint and colorful, and the gardens…well, inspirational.



chateau de cheverny

 

 

 

 

Cheverny

Last (but not least) in my series of chateaus (that I have visited)…Cheverny. The more "modern" of the castles, the interiors are beautifully furnished, and descendants of the original owners still live in a portion of it, which is quite unique.  I had the most fun here, as my brother has always been a huge fan of the comic "The Adventures of Tintin", in which the chateau was always featured. There is a museum on the grounds for the comic book characters which is very interactive-we all had a blast!